Electrified catalytic processes for green fuels production via co2 hydrogenation

About the Project

The transition to a low-carbon energy system requires sustainable methods for converting carbon dioxide (CO2) into useful fuels and chemicals. CO2 hydrogenation offers a promising route to produce green fuels such as methanol and synthetic hydrocarbons, particularly when combined with renewable hydrogen. However, conventional thermal catalytic processes often require high temperatures and pressures, leading to significant energy consumption and limited compatibility with intermittent renewable energy sources.

This PhD project aims to develop electrified catalytic processes for efficient CO2 hydrogenation to produce green fuels. Electrified catalysis integrates catalytic materials with electrically driven activation methods, enabling chemical transformations under milder conditions while improving energy efficiency and process flexibility. By coupling catalytic systems with electrical energy inputs, the project will explore new reaction pathways and improve the activation of stable CO2 molecules. The research will focus on designing and optimising advanced catalyst materials and reactor systems capable of operating under electrified conditions. Experimental studies will investigate how electrical parameters, catalyst structure, and reaction environments influence catalytic activity, selectivity, and stability. Advanced characterisation techniques and mechanistic studies will be used to understand the interactions between electric fields, catalysts, and reactants.

The outcomes of this project will contribute to the development of scalable technologies for converting CO2 into sustainable fuels, supporting carbon recycling and reducing reliance on fossil resources. By advancing electrified catalytic processes, the research will help enable more flexible, energy-efficient routes to green fuel production aligned with global decarbonisation goals.

Eligibility

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline.

Funding

This 3.5 year project is for self-funded students, or those with external funding.

At Manchester we offer a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level, to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers applying for competition and self-funded projects.

For more information, visit our funding page or search our funding database for specific scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor(s) for this project before you apply. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

How to apply

Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it).
• Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• English Language certificate (if applicable)

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk.